A man claims his employer fired him following its refusal to pay for medical bills he incurred after stepping on a nail while working.

Daniel J. Byrd filed a lawsuit Jan. 30 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Arrowhead Building Supply.

In his complaint, Byrd alleges he was working for Arrowhead on Sept. 20, 2011, when he stepped on a nail.

After seeking medical treatment at St. Elizabeth's Hospital, Byrd requested Arrowhead pay for the medical bills he incurred because of the incident, according to the complaint. However, the company refused to do so, the suit states.

Because of his repeated requests for reimbursement and his threats to take legal action, Byrd claims he was fired on Nov. 7.

Due to his termination, Byrd suffered embarrassment, humiliation, mental anguish, pain and suffering and lost wages, according to the complaint.

In his suit, Byrd seeks a judgment of more than $50,000 but less than $75,000, plus damages and costs.

Edward J. Szewczyk of Callis, Papa, Hale and Szewczyk in Granite City will be representing him.